India, Aug. 2 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday indirectly responded to former US President Donald Trump's recent remarks labelling India's economy as "dead," asserting that India is poised to become the world's third-largest economy and must remain vigilant in protecting its interests amid global instability.

Addressing a rally in Varanasi, PM Modi stressed the importance of economic self-reliance and reiterated his government's commitment to farmers, small industries, and youth employment. His remarks came just days after Trump announced a 25% tariff on Indian imports and warned of further economic penalties over India's continued trade with Russia.

"There is an atmosphere of global instability. All countries are focusing on...